Advanced Near Net Shape Technology (ANNST) - Integrally Stiffened Cylinder (ISC)

The Integrally Stiffened Cylinder (ISC) Process is a new and revolutionary manufacturing technique that could drastically reduce the cost of fabricating rocket structural hardware. Specifically, the adaption of a commercial automotive process will enable us to make future large rocket fuel tanks, like the External Tank of the retired Space Shuttle, which are greener, safer, and lighter. Both US industry and ESA have invested in ISC development. Plans are in place to bring this technology from Germany to the US after we successfully demonstrate the ISC process at the 10 ft. diameter scale in spring 2017.

Benefits to NASA's vision for Mars exploration through deployment in commercial launch systems the are relied on for low earth orbit, cislunar operations, and lunar orbit missions. Further process scale up can benefit the SLS launch system.Leverage of the ISC process to commercial aviation for single-piece fuelage structure;Fabrication of lower cost missile and small launch vehicle structures using the ISC process will lenable more efficient production of munitions systems and enable larger arsenals.;10 foot diameter

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.